ABC's selection of George Stephanopoulos to replace Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America signals the network's desire to toughen up the morning show during tough times.

It's the first time the reporter, who turns 64 on Dec. 22, has publicly addressed her departure, which has made headlines for weeks. Sawyer joined GMA in '99 as a temporary gig but stayed on because of high ratings.

"I am strong" were the first words out of Rihanna's mouth in her short interview with Diane Sawyer on ABC's "Good Morning America."